This Study Guide consists of approximately 61 pages of chapter summaries, quotes, character analysis, themes, and more -
everything you need to sharpen your knowledge of Confessions of an Ugly Stepsister.

Prologue and Chapter 1 The Obscure Child Summary

Confessions of an Ugly Stepsister tells the classic story of Cinderella through the perspective of Clara's stepsister, Iris, who is her only friend. The girls struggle to keep their family from poverty and grow up in a world where they are judged by the appearance. The dark insights to this well-known tale are captivating and creative.

The elderly narrator observes children recounting a tale she recognizes. She had a sister named Clara who she admits was the prettiest and is now deceased. She feels as though the children are telling the story of her family. The narrator is partially crippled and seems saddened by the children's careless mockery of her memories. She wonders if they have embellished her story or if she is merely reminded of her family through the similarities.